What is a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty)?

Abdominoplasty, often called ‘a tummy tuck’, is a type of a cosmetic surgery procedure. Its main aim is to make the abdomen thinner, smoother, firmer, and better-looking.

During the procedure, the excess fat and skin is removed from the lower and sometimes from the upper part of the tummy to help tighten weakened muscles of the abdominal wall.

In certain cases, a tummy tuck treatment can solve the problem of loose and sagging tissues when neither exercise nor weight control programs help, especially after pregnancy or substantial weight loss. It is important to understand that abdominoplasty is not a substitute for weight loss.

Abdominoplasty can make your abdomen well-toned, shaped and flat again. Yet it is important to understand that it is quite large and complex surgery entailing certain risks. It should be done only if the appearance of your tummy disturbs you, not anyone else. It should always be a highly personal decision to undergo tummy tuck surgery.

Am I a candidate for a tummy tuck?

You are if you are not satisfied with what your tummy looks like.

But it is also important that you are:

Currently have stable weight and do not suffer from obesity

Are in good health: no diabetes, no multi-system diseases, no coagulation disorders

Do not smoke

Are realistic about the results of abdominoplasty

If you are planning future pregnancies or considering major loss weight, it is advisable to postpone tummy tuck surgery.

How is a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) performed?

The tummy tuck procedure is generally performed in three steps: Anaesthesia – Surgery – Closing the incision.

Anaesthesia Abdominoplasty is performed under anaesthesia. It can be either intravenous sedation or general anaesthesia. The choice depends on several factors including the type of abdominoplasty you require and your physical health.

Surgery A horizontally-oriented incision is made in the pubic area, just above your hairline. The size of the incision depends on how much stomach skin needs removal.

In case you have a lot excess skin on the upper abdomen, too, and need complete tummy tuck, another incision around the navel is necessary.

The skin is then detached from the abdominal wall and the revealed muscles and fascia are tightened.

The skin from the upper abdomen is stretched down; excess skin is removed.

If necessary, a new belly button is formed.

Closing the incision Two flaps of skin – from upper abdomen and lower abdomen – are stitched together and an appropriate dressing is applied.

What are the risks of tummy tuck surgery?

Tummy tuck removal surgery does carry some risks. They can be both serious or life-threatening. That is why all complications and benefits should be considered before committing to surgery to remove excess skin on stomach.

The majority of complications after tummy tuck surgery occur within 72 hours after the procedure and normally when you are still under medical supervision.

Some major risks of abdominoplasty include:

Infection – Infection occurs very rarely and is treated with antibiotics.

Blood clots – Risk of blood clots formation can be minimized by moving around after surgery as soon as possible.

Fluid accumulation – It is easily detected by a surgeon and aspirated with a needle.

Visible scar – While normally the scar is located very low in abdominal area, its appearance is highly dependent on your skin type. The scar flattens and becomes lighter in colour after six–twelve months after surgery.

What results should I expect after a tummy tuck?

Swelling is common immediately after surgery. For a few days you will not be able to stand upright, either. That is why at least two weeks are required to evaluate the results of tummy tuck procedure.

After two weeks you will see a slimmer abdomen. It will be flatter and firmer with excess skin gotten rid of and your abdominal muscles repaired and tightened.

The scar may remain reddish and prominent for about six months or even a year. After that it will flatten and lighten in colour. During the same period the sensitivity to the area adjacent to the scar will return gradually.

What should I expect during my tummy tuck recovery?

The initial recovery takes between one week and four week. This period is dependent on various factors including the extent of the surgery performed, your health, and complications, if any.

Bruising and discomfort in the abdominal area may occur.

In case of bruising as well as swelling a compression garment or supportive abdominal binder is recommended.

You should avoid heavy lifting and refrain from smoking.

While swelling and bruising will normally vanish by the end of the initial recovery period, the full recovery will take between three and six months with scar becoming less notable in one year’s time.

Why Choose Thailand over Other Countries?

The two main reasons for opting for abdominoplasty in Thailand is the high quality of medical care and lower prices.

There are exceptional medical facilities for tummy tuck surgery in Thailand.

Cost of medical care in Thailand is much lower compared to many European countries, USA, Canada of Australia.

Thailand is a popular medical tourism destination for abdominoplasty surgery with local surgeons having huge experience in performing this type of procedure.

Many Thai doctors and surgeons are US- or Australia-trained.

There are 29 Joint Commission International (JCI)-accredited hospitals in Thailand.

English is spoken or you can require an interpreter of your mother-tongue language.

After-surgery care and nursing in Thailand is top-notch.

How to Choose Right Clinic?

While preparing for tummy tuck in Thailand it is important to decide where to do it and who will do it for you.

Do not choose price-wise. Abdominoplasty is a serious surgery and lower cost may mean poorer facilities or a less qualified surgeon.

Give preference to plastic surgery departments in well-established hospitals over private abdominoplasty surgery clinics. Hospitals are often better equipped and feature ICU should you require one in case of emergency.

Find out how long the clinic or hospital has been in existence and check for safety record.

Meet with the surgeon who will perform the procedure for you and ask them all the questions you have regarding the surgery. You must be sure both of you understand and agree on risks and eventual results of tummy tuck.

Ask about your surgeon’s experience, certificates and training.

Look for other patients’ reviews – whether they are generally positive or negative about their tummy tuck performed in this very hospital or tummy tuck surgery clinic by this very surgeon.